Miss Botswana Organisation last Friday officially revealed its top 10 finalists for this year’s event.
The occasion is set to be hosted on March 22 at a venue to be announced. Notably, the organisation also released the judging criteria. Following numerous complaints and allegations of favouritism, which the pageant organisers have denied, they have since made public the criteria to determine who will be the fairest of them all this year. Speaking at the launch and the official sashing of the finalists, Ambrocia Samboko, shared: “In line with Botswana’s commitment to good governance and public interest, Miss World Botswana promises a fair, transparent, and credible selection process. The goal is to crown a representative who embodies Botswana’s aspirations and will proudly showcase the nation’s values on the global stage.” Whilst the organisers say they will reveal the panel of judges at a much later stage, they revealed that Baker Tilly Certified Auditors, a trusted auditing firm, will this time around, independently the entire judging process.
Their role, according to the Miss Botswana organisation, includes verifying votes, monitoring scores, and ensuring compliance with the established criteria. “Miss World Botswana aims to crown an exceptional individual who reflects the nation’s values and serves as an ambassador for Batswana at home and abroad. This rigorous, transparent process underscores our commitment to selecting a queen who represents Botswana with pride, integrity, and purpose,” Samboko further shared.
The criteria: Social media and public vote: Encouraging public participation to reflect the voice of the nation.
International votes: Engaging global audiences to amplify Botswana’s presence on the world stage.
Beauty with a purpose: The most significant segment, emphasising contestants’ social responsibility, impact-driven initiatives, and dedication to community service.
Judges’ consensus: Evaluating contestants based on key attributes. Integrity and character: Demonstrating honesty and a strong moral compass. Leadership potential: Inspiring positive change and advocacy.
Communication skills: Articulating ideas fluently in Setswana and English. Cultural awareness: Showcasing pride and knowledge of Botswana’s heritage. Commitment to national development: Passion for contributing to Botswana’s progress
The top 10 finalists:
Future Lady Kebone Gaethuse, Girly Bone Kookilwe, Kimberly Kotwa, Felang Kwapa, Magdeline Angel Modipane, Selwana Motlatsi Motsemeng, Lame Ntelang-Segaise, Stephinah Sebina, Keitumetse Sola, Ruth Thomas.